A new wave of tension has hit the New Patriotic Party (NPP) as reports reveal a clash between Energy Minister Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, widely known as “NAPO,” and the Ashanti Regional Chairman, Bernard Antwi Boasiako, or “Chairman Wontumi.” This confrontation reportedly occurred during their campaign efforts in the Volta Region, where the NPP has been pushing to increase its influence. The incident has sparked concerns about unity within the party, particularly as the 2024 general elections approach.
Historically dominated by the National Democratic Congress (NDC), the Volta Region has been a difficult area for the NPP to penetrate. To change this, the party has sent high-profile leaders like NAPO and Wontumi to increase engagement, rally support, and potentially win new votes. Each of these leaders brings a different style to the table, which seems to be at the root of their recent clash. While NAPO prefers a policy-driven approach, Wontumi’s more energetic, grassroots style is better suited to regions with a strong party base like the Ashanti Region.
NAPO, as the Energy Minister, focuses on conveying structured policies and long-term development plans. His approach is direct and policy-oriented, aimed at demonstrating the benefits the NPP’s initiatives could bring to the Volta Region’s residents. This approach is intended to appeal to residents through promises of sustainable progress and economic empowerment.
On the other hand, Chairman Wontumi has made his mark with a style rooted in grassroots mobilization, using humor, charisma, and high-energy rallies to engage supporters. His approach has been effective in the Ashanti Region, where he enjoys broad support. However, his energetic style is viewed by some as unsuited to the Volta Region, where a more reserved, issue-focused strategy might be better received.
Reports suggest the clash between NAPO and Wontumi was driven by their differing campaign strategies. NAPO reportedly voiced concerns about Wontumi’s methods, suggesting they might be counterproductive in a region like Volta, which tends to favor policy-based messaging over populist tactics. NAPO’s emphasis on highlighting the NPP’s accomplishments and developmental plans, he believes, will better connect with voters in the area.
Meanwhile, Wontumi’s strategy has focused on large rallies designed to energize potential voters and increase the NPP’s visibility. This approach, while popular in his Ashanti base, may not resonate as well with the more conservative and traditionally NDC-aligned residents of the Volta Region, creating a point of contention between the two leaders.
The disagreement between NAPO and Wontumi raises questions about the NPP’s ability to maintain a united front as it heads toward the 2024 elections. As the party works to gain support in regions where it has historically struggled, the need for a cohesive strategy becomes even more important. Divisions in campaign messaging could lead to mixed signals, making it harder for the NPP to establish trust and credibility among new potential supporters.
This tension within the party reflects a broader debate over which campaign strategies work best in areas dominated by the opposition. Successfully balancing these internal dynamics is crucial for the NPP to strengthen its appeal to the electorate.
To achieve its objectives in the Volta Region, the NPP will need both NAPO and Wontumi to align their efforts and focus on a common strategy. Their ability to work together and find common ground could play a crucial role in the party’s success as they aim to make headway in the Volta Region. By combining their strengths and presenting a unified front, the NPP stands a better chance of connecting with voters in the area and positioning itself as a strong alternative to the NDC.
The next few months will be critical for the NPP as they strive to solidify their internal unity and address any lingering conflicts. If handled well, these efforts could help the party make meaningful gains in a region that has long been difficult to penetrate.